The Box: The Adventures of Katie and Karl Wallaroo by Rhonda and Rodney Brooks

Review 5 star

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The Box: The Adventure of Katie and Karl Wallaroo is a children’s picture book that encourages kids to be imaginative. It is written by Rhonda and Rodney Brooks and stars two little kangaroos, a brother and a sister, who imagine things that come alive. After they are gifted an empty box during playtime, their journey begins. Ladybugs start to fly everywhere. When Katie and Karl close their eyes and wish to see something, it happens! They are transported to a field of strawberries, a pirate ship, a jungle—whatever they ask to see. The box turns into the transportation they need for their journey. Their mother is pleased they are having fun, but she thinks they are just imaginative. But then a ladybug lands on her nose too!
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This book is pretty awesome. The ease and immediacy with which children can believe and open their minds is not only a vital learning skill, but an important part of being happy. During The Box: The Adventures of Katie and Karl Wallaroo, the young kangaroos never hold back or limit themselves. Instead, they are boundlessly and flexibly creative. They want to see things and those things appear for them. The sense of adventure—or to be specific, “funventure”—within this tale is tangible and something any kid can relate to instantly. The exuberance of little Karl and Katie is their greatest strength in this pleasant story—the courage to embrace the joy of exploring and having fun. Rhonda and Rodney Brooks have coauthored a good read-aloud book that’s a nice addition to any children’ library.